Trajectory amendment system

ABSTRACT

Systems and methods for providing trajectory amendments are provided. In one embodiment, a method can include identifying an arrival time slot associated with a landing area. The method can further include providing to one or more second computing devices of a plurality of operators, a first set of data identifying the arrival time slot. The method can include receiving a second set of data indicating that a first operator of the plurality of operators has selected the arrival time slot. The method can further include determining one or more trajectory amendments to allow a first aircraft associated with the first operator to meet the arrival time slot associated with the landing area. The method can include sending one or more trajectory amendments.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present subject matter relates generally to providing trajectoryamendments and more particularly to providing trajectory amendments forselection by an operator.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Airlines currently have resources available to collect data andcalculate flight trajectory amendments for an aircraft. However, suchcalculations can involve a significant amount of computational and humanresources. This can take away valuable resources that can be allocatedto more critical tasks associated with the operation of an aircraftfleet. Moreover, some smaller airlines may not have the same level ofaccess to certain data sources as other, larger airlines. As such, theability for smaller airlines to calculate advantageous trajectoryamendments may be limited.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Aspects and advantages of embodiments of the present disclosure will beset forth in part in the following description, or may be learned fromthe description, or may be learned through practice of the embodiments.

One example aspect of the present disclosure is directed to acomputer-implemented method of providing trajectory amendments. Themethod can include identifying, by one or more first computing devices,an arrival time slot associated with a landing area. The method canfurther include providing, by the one or more computing devices to oneor more second computing devices of a plurality of operators, a firstset of data identifying the arrival time slot. The method can includereceiving, by the one or more first computing devices, a second set ofdata indicating that a first operator of the plurality of operators hasselected the arrival time slot. The method can further includedetermining, by the one or more first computing devices, one or moretrajectory amendments to allow a first aircraft associated with thefirst operator to meet the arrival time slot associated with the landingarea. The method can include sending, by the one or more computingdevices, the one or more trajectory amendments.

Another example aspect of the present disclosure is directed to acomputing system for providing trajectory amendments. The system caninclude one or more processors and one or more memory devices. The oneor more memory devices can store instructions that when executed by theone or more processors cause the one or more processors to performoperations. The operations can include identifying an arrival time slotassociated with a landing area. The operations can further includeproviding for display in a user interface, to one or more secondcomputing devices of a plurality of operators, a first set of dataidentifying the arrival time slot. The operations can include receivinga second set of data indicating that a first operator of the pluralityof operators has selected the arrival time slot. The operations canfurther include determining one or more trajectory amendments to allow afirst aircraft associated with the first operator to meet the arrivaltime slot associated with the landing area. The operations can includesending the one or more trajectory amendments to one or more operatorsof the plurality of operators.

Yet another example aspect of the present disclosure is directed to acomputing system for providing trajectory amendments. The system caninclude one or more processors and one or more memory devices. The oneor more memory devices can store instructions that when executed by theone or more processors cause the one or more processors to performoperations. The operations can include identifying an arrival time slotassociated with a landing area. The operations can further includeproviding, to one or more second computing devices of a plurality ofoperators, a first set of data identifying the arrival time slot. Theoperations can include receiving a second set of data indicating that afirst operator of the plurality of operators has selected the arrivaltime slot. The operations can further include determining one or moretrajectory amendments to allow a first aircraft associated with thefirst operator to meet the arrival time slot associated with the landingarea. The operations can include receiving a set of data indicating thata third party entity has accepted the trajectory amendment. Theoperations can further include sending the one or more trajectoryamendments to one or more operators of the plurality of operators.

Other example aspects of the present disclosure are directed to systems,methods, aircrafts, avionics systems, devices, user interfaces,non-transitory computer-readable media for providing trajectoryamendments.

Variations and modifications can be made to these example aspects of thepresent disclosure.

These and other features, aspects and advantages of various embodimentswill become better understood with reference to the followingdescription and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which areincorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrateembodiments of the present disclosure and, together with thedescription, serve to explain the related principles.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Detailed discussion of embodiments directed to one of ordinary skill inthe art are set forth in the specification, which makes reference to theappended figures, in which:

FIG. 1 depicts an example system according to example embodiments of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 2 depicts an example user interface according to exampleembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 depicts an example user interface according to exampleembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 depicts a flow diagram of an example method for providingtrajectory amendments according to example embodiments of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 5 depicts an example system according to example embodiments of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 6 depicts an example user interface according to exampleembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 depicts a flow diagram of an example method for providingtrajectory amendments according to example embodiments of the presentdisclosure; and

FIG. 8 depicts an example system according to example embodiments of thepresent disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the presentdisclosure, one or more example(s) of which are illustrated in thedrawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the presentdisclosure, not limitation of the present disclosure. In fact, it willbe apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications andvariations can be made in the present disclosure without departing fromthe scope or spirit of the present disclosure. For instance, featuresillustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used withanother embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it isintended that the present disclosure covers such modifications andvariations as come within the scope of the appended claims and theirequivalents.

Example aspects of the present disclosure are directed to system andmethods for providing trajectory amendments. For instance, a cloud-basedcomputing system associated with a service provider can identify acurrent trajectory associated with an aircraft. The computing system candetermine a trajectory amendment associated with the aircraft, inreal-time. A trajectory amendment can be, for instance, a combination ofuser defined constraints and/or targets and aircraft performancecharacteristics captured in a computer that include a deviation (e.g.,in speed, altitude, heading, path) from at least a portion of thecurrent trajectory and/or flight plan of the aircraft. The trajectory ofan aircraft can be amended by, for example, changing at least one of aflight plan (e.g., constraints on the map, points to traverse), altitudeconstraints along the flight plan, and/or time/speed constraints alongthe flight plan. The computing system can determine a projectedoperations value (e.g., fuel savings, noise savings, emissions savings)and a price associated with the trajectory amendment. The computingsystem can make the trajectory amendment available for selection (e.g.purchase) by communicating the projected operations value and price ofthe trajectory amendment to an operator associated with the aircraft. Asused herein, an operator can include an airspace user, airline, privateoperator, business jet operator, UAV operator, etc. In the event that anoperator selects (e.g., purchases) the trajectory amendment, thecomputing system can provide the operator with the details of thetrajectory amendment (e.g., change in speed, altitude, heading, path)such that it can implement the trajectory amendment with the aircraft.In this way, the computing system can act as a trajectory amendmentbrokerage that provides, in real-time, trajectory amendments to operatorcustomers based on market demand as well as operations savingsopportunities associated therewith.

More particularly, the computing system of the service provider canidentify at least a portion of the current trajectory associated with anaircraft. For instance, the computing system can receive data indicativeof the current trajectory from at least one of the aircraft, an operatorcomputing system, one or more data source(s) (e.g., databases associatedwith aircraft data monitoring entities), and/or another system that canprovide such information. The computing system can identify one or moreconditions (e.g., speed, heading, altitude, path, time) associated withthe current trajectory.

The computing system can determine a trajectory amendment associatedwith the aircraft in real-time. For instance, the computing system canreceive a plurality of parameters associated with the aircraft. Theparameters can include weather information, wind shear information,flight traffic information, air traffic rules/constraints, aircrafttype, aircraft location information, and/or other types of informationassociated with the aircraft and/or that can be used to determine atrajectory (or trajectory amendment) associated with the aircraft. Thecomputing system can determine a trajectory amendment associated withthe aircraft based, at least in part, on the plurality of parameters(e.g., using a four-dimensional flight trajectory optimizationtechnique). The trajectory amendment can be more cost-effective than atleast a portion of the aircraft's current trajectory.

The computing system can determine a projected operations value and/or aprice associated with the trajectory amendment. The projected operationsvalue can include a variety of potential operations values. Forinstance, as further described herein, the projected operations valuecan include a fuel savings value, a noise savings value, an emissionssavings value, a time savings value, and/or a turbulence savings value.Each such value can indicate an amount/level of the fuel, noise,emissions, time, turbulence, etc. The price can be based, at least inpart, on the projected demand for the trajectory amendment, the supplyof trajectory amendments for the aircraft, the projected operationsvalue, and/or a level of uncertainty/error associated with thetrajectory amendment. In some implementations, the computing systems canimplement machine learning techniques and/or algorithms to helpdetermine the price associated with the trajectory amendment based, atleast in part, on past and/or present activity (e.g., purchasingactivity) of the operator. Such techniques can help the service providerdetermine a market optimized price for the trajectory amendment.

The computing systems can provide the trajectory amendment for selectionby an operator. For instance, the computing system can provide, to anoperator associated with the aircraft, a set of data identifying thetrajectory amendment. Such identification can indicate that thetrajectory amendment is available for purchase. The set of data can alsobe indicative of the projected operations value and/or the priceassociated with the trajectory amendment. In some implementations, theoperations value can be available publically, while the price can beavailable privately, only to the operator associated with the aircraft.The operator can receive the set of data and display it on a userinterface, which can allow the operator to select (e.g., purchase) thetrajectory amendment. In some implementations, an air traffic controllercan review the trajectory amendment before it is selected by theoperator. The air traffic controller can approve, reject, and/or promotethe trajectory amendment (e.g., based on the projected operationsvalue), as further described herein,

In the event that the operator selects the trajectory amendment, thecomputing system can send a set of data indicative of the trajectoryamendment to the selecting operator. The set of data can include thedetails of the trajectory amendment such as a change in speed, altitude,heading, path, etc. of the aircraft. The operator can implement thetrajectory amendment, for example, by sending the trajectory amendmentto the aircraft. Additionally, and/or alternatively, upon selection, thecomputing system can send the set of data indicative of the trajectoryamendment directly to the aircraft (e.g., a flight management system)for implementation.

Other example aspects of the present disclosure are directed to abrokerage system for providing arrival time slots. For instance, thecomputing system can identify and provide arrival time slots associatedwith a landing area (e.g., airport) for selection (e.g., purchase) by aplurality of operators. Each of the operators can have an opportunity toselect the arrival time slot by submitted a bid to the computing system.The highest bidder can select the trajectory amendment. Upon selection,the computing system can determine one or more trajectory amendments toallow a designated aircraft of the operator to meet the arrival timeslot. For example, the computing system can determine a trajectoryamendment for the designated aircraft such that it can properly arriveat the arrival time slot. Additionally, and/or alternatively, thecomputing system can determine one or more trajectory amendment(s) forother aircrafts to prevent the aircrafts from interfering with thedesignated aircraft meeting the arrival time slot, as further describedherein.

The systems and methods according to example aspects of the presentdisclosure provide cost-efficient trajectory amendments to operatorcustomers in real-time. More particularly, this brokerage-type systemcan compute, store, and valuate flight trajectory amendments inreal-time and provide operations savings opportunities to users, withoutthe need for the service provider to prove the value of the service.Moreover, the systems and methods enable the flight controllers to moreeasily and effectively ensure safety while affecting airspace noise,congestion, and emissions. In this way, the systems and methodsaccording to example aspects of the present disclosure have a technicaleffect of encouraging fuel, emissions, noise, etc. minimizing behaviorin controlled airspace.

FIG. 1 depicts an example system 100 according to example embodiments ofthe present disclosure. As shown the system 100 can include an aircraft102, a computing system 104, an operator computing system 106, and oneor more data source(s) 108. As further described herein, the aircraft102, the computing system 104, the operator computing system 106, andthe data source(s) 108 can be configured to communicate with one another(e.g., to send and/or receive data) via one or more networks.

The aircraft 102 can include one or more engine(s), a fuselage, and aflight management system 103. The aircraft 102 can be associated with acurrent trajectory 110. The flight management system can be configuredto implement the current trajectory 110 such that the aircraft 102 cantravel according to the trajectory. For instance, the flight managementsystem 103 can implement the current trajectory 110 using the auto-pilotsystem of the aircraft 102. In some implementations, implementation ofthe current trajectory 110 can include manual user interaction, forexample, by a member of a flight crew. As further described herein, theflight management system 103 can be configured to implement a trajectoryamendment associated with the aircraft 102.

The computing system 104 can be, for example, associated with a serviceprovider that makes trajectory amendments available to operators. Thecomputing system 104 can include one or more first computing device(s)112. The computing device(s) 112 can include various components forperforming various operations and functions. For example, and as furtherdescribed herein, the computing device(s) 112 can include one or moreprocessor(s) and one or more memory device(s). The one or more memorydevice(s) can store instructions that when executed by the one or moreprocessor(s) cause the one or more processor(s) to perform theoperations and functions for providing trajectory amendments, asdescribed herein.

The operator computing system 106 can be associated with an operatorthat includes the aircraft 102 in the operator's fleet of aircrafts. Theoperator computing system 106 can be associated with an entity of theoperator that is related to and/or responsible for the trajectorymanagement of the operator's aircraft fleet. For instance, the operatorcomputing system 106 can be associated with an operations center (orother entity) that is responsible for monitoring, managing, directing,implementing, etc. the trajectories and/or trajectory amendments for theaircraft 102. The operator computing system 106 can include one or moresecond computing device(s) 114 of the operator. The second computingdevice(s) 114 can include various components for performing variousoperations and functions. For example, the computing device(s) 114 caninclude one or more processor(s) and one or more memory device(s). Theone or more memory device(s) can store instructions that when executedby the one or more processor(s) cause the one or more processor(s) toperform the operations and functions described herein.

The data source(s) 108 can be associated with one or more entities thatcollect, monitor, and/or store parameters associated with aircrafts(e.g., aircraft 102) and/or avionics systems. For example, the datasource(s) 108 can be associated with a weather data center, the federalaviation administration, an air traffic center, an operator operationscenter, a satellite monitoring system, an individual aircraft, etc. Thedata source(s) 108 can include one or more computing device(s) that areconfigured to collect, monitor, and/or store a plurality of parameters116 associated with an aircraft (e.g., aircraft 102). For instance, theparameters 116 can include weather information, wind shear information,flight traffic information, air traffic rules/constraints, currentflight plan and/or trajectory information for an aircraft (e.g.,aircraft 102), aircraft performance information, aircraft type, aircraftlocation information, radar information, voice communicationinformation, publically available information, service-basedinformation, any other information associated with a particular aircraft(e.g., aircraft 102), and/or any other information that may beconsidered when calculating a trajectory and/or trajectory amendment.The data source(s) 108 can be configured to send the plurality ofparameters 116 to the computing device(s) 112 of the computing system104.

The computing device(s) 112 can be configured to identify at least aportion of the current trajectory 110 associated with the aircraft 102.For instance, the computing device(s) 112 can be configured to receivedata indicative of the current trajectory 110 from at least one of theaircraft 102, the operator computing system 106, the data source(s) 108,and/or another system that can provide such information. The computingdevice(s) 112 can be configured to identify one or more conditionsassociated with the current trajectory 110. For example, the computingdevice(s) 112 can be configured to identify a speed, a heading, analtitude, a path, a time, a location, a fuel level, a noise level, anemissions level, etc. associated with at least one or more portion(s)and/or waypoint(s) of the current trajectory 110. By way of example, thecomputing device(s) 112 can be configured to determine at least one of afirst fuel level 118A, a first noise level 118B, and/or a firstemissions level 118C associated with the current trajectory 110.

The computing device(s) 112 can be configured to determine a trajectoryamendment 120 for the aircraft 102. For instance, the computingdevice(s) 112 can be configured to receive the plurality of parameters116 associated with the aircraft 102 from the data source(s) 108. Thecomputing device(s) 112 can be configured to determine the trajectoryamendment 120 associated with the aircraft 102 based, at least in part,on the plurality of parameters 116 and/or the current trajectory 110.For example, the computing device(s) 112 can perform a four-dimensionalflight trajectory optimization based, at least in part, on the pluralityof parameters 116 that are available to the computing device(s) 112.Additionally, and/or alternatively, by using the condition(s) associatedwith the current trajectory 110, the computing device(s) 112 can beconfigured to determine the trajectory amendment 120 based, at least inpart, on the plurality of parameters 116 such that the trajectoryamendment 120 is more cost-effective than the current trajectory 110associated with the aircraft 102.

The computing device(s) 112 can be configured to determine a projectedoperations value associated with the trajectory amendment 120. Theprojected operations value can include at least one of a fuel savingsvalue, a noise savings value, an emissions savings value, a time savingsvalue (e.g., time savings to destination, some other location), aturbulence savings value, and/or another value indicative of anadvantage provided by the trajectory amendment 120. In someimplementations, the computing device(s) 112 can determine the projectedoperations value associated with the trajectory amendment 120, based atleast in part, on the current trajectory 110 and the trajectoryamendment 120. For example, as indicated above, the computing device(s)112 can be configured to determine at least one of a first fuel level118A, a first noise level 118B, and/or a first emissions level 118Cassociated with the current trajectory 110. The computing device(s) 112can also be configured to determine at least one of a second fuel level122A, a second noise level 122B, and/or a second emissions level 122Cassociated with the trajectory amendment 120. The computing device(s)112 can be configured to determine the projected operations valueassociated with the trajectory amendment 120 based, at least in part, onat least one of a difference between the first fuel level 118A and thesecond fuel level 122A, a difference between the first noise level 118Band the second noise level 122B, and a difference between the firstemissions level 118C and the second emissions level 122C.

The computing device(s) 112 can be configured to determine a priceassociated with the trajectory amendment 120. For example, the computingdevice(s) 112 can be configured to determine the price based, at leastin part, on the projected demand for the trajectory amendment 120, thesupply of trajectory amendments for the aircraft 102, the projectedoperations value, and/or a level of uncertainty associated with thetrajectory amendment 120 (e.g., error in projected operations value).The price can be specific to the operator. Additionally, and/oralternatively, the computing device(s) 112 can be configured toimplement machine learning techniques and/or algorithms to helpdetermine the price associated with the trajectory amendment 120 based,at least in part, on past and/or present activity (e.g., purchasingactivity) of the operator. In this way, the computing device(s) 112 canbe configured to find a market optimized price for the trajectoryamendment 120.

The computing device(s) 112 can be configured to provide, to the othercomputing device(s) 114, a set of data 124 identifying the trajectoryamendment 120. For example, identification of the trajectory amendment120 can include indicating that the trajectory amendment 120 isavailable for selection (e.g., purchase). The set of data 124 can also,and/or alternatively, indicate the price associated with the trajectoryamendment 120 and/or the projected operations value associated with thetrajectory amendment 120. For instance, the computing device(s) 112 canbe configured to generate an output indicating that the trajectoryamendment 120 is available, the aircraft 102, the projected operationsvalue, and/or the price associated with the trajectory amendment 120.The computing device(s) 112 can be configured to send the output to thecomputing device(s) 114 of the operator associated with the aircraft 102for display via a user interface.

For example, FIG. 2 depicts an example user interface 200 according toexample embodiments of the present disclosure. The user interface 200can be displayed on a display device associated with the computingdevice(s) 114. As shown in FIG. 2, an output 202 including the set ofdata 124 can be displayed via the user interface 200. For example, theuser interface 200 can identify the trajectory amendment 120 (e.g.,“TRAJECTORY AMENDMENT A”), the aircraft 102 associated with thetrajectory amendment 120 (e.g., “AIRCRAFT NO. A-AAAA”), the price 204(e.g., $1000.00), and/or the projected operations value 206. The price204 can be private to the operator, such that only the operator can viewthe price 204 associated with the trajectory amendment 120.

The projected operations value 206 can include a variety of potentialoperations values. For instance, as shown, the projected operationsvalue 206 can include at least one of a fuel savings value 206A, a noisesavings value 206B, and/or an emissions savings value 206C. Theprojected operations value 206 can also, and/or alternatively, include atime operations value. In some implementations, the user interface 200will not display a savings value in terms of currency associated withthe trajectory amendment 120. Moreover, in some implementations, theprojected operations value 206 can be made publically available, suchthat other operators can view the projected operations value 206associated with the trajectory amendment 120.

In some implementations, the projected operations value 206 can includean aggregate operations value 206D. The aggregate operations value 206Dcan be indicative of the agreement amount of savings the operator hasexperienced by selecting (e.g., purchasing) trajectory amendments fromthe provider associated with the computing device(s) 112 over a certaintime period (e.g., day, month, year, all time). The aggregate operationsvalue 206D can be indicated in terms of fuel, noise, emissions, time,etc. In some implementations, the aggregate operations value 206D caninclude the projected operations value 206 associated with thetrajectory amendment 120, while in some implementations the aggregateoperations value 206D can include only the operations values associatedwith trajectory amendments that have been previously selected by theoperator. In this way, the user interface 200 can indicate to theoperator the amount that the operator has saved by selecting trajectoryamendments from the provider and/or the amount the aggregate savingswill further increase by selecting the trajectory amendment 120. Itshould be noted that while the price 204, the projected operations value206, etc. are displayed for the operator at this pre-selection stage,the parameters of the trajectory amendment 120 are not displayed priorto selection of the trajectory amendment 120.

The user interface 200 can allow for a selection of the trajectoryamendment 120. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the user interface 200can include an interactive element 208 (e.g., button, entry field, menu)with which a user of the computing device(s) 114 of the operator caninteract with to select the trajectory amendment 120. Selecting thetrajectory amendment 120 can include purchasing the trajectory amendment120. In some implementations, the computing device(s) 114 can beconfigured to automatically select the trajectory amendment 120 in theevent that the trajectory amendment 120 meets one or more limits (e.g.,price limit, projected savings limit). These limits can be, for example,set by the operator and/or a user associated therewith.

Returning to FIG. 1, upon selection of the trajectory amendment 120, thecomputing device(s) 114 can send a second set of data 126 indicatingthat the operator has selected the trajectory amendment 120. Thecomputing device(s) 112 can be configured to receive the second set ofdata 126 indicating that the operator (associated with the aircraft 102)has selected the trajectory amendment 120. The computing device(s) 112can be configured to send a third set of data 128 indicative of thetrajectory amendment 120 in real-time. The third set of data 128 canindicate one or more second parameters (further described below)associated with the trajectory amendment 120. In some implementations,the computing device(s) 112 can send the third set of data 128 to theaircraft 102 (e.g., to the flight management system). In this way, theaircraft 102 can implement the trajectory amendment 120. For example, aflight crew member of the aircraft 102 can interact with the flightmanagement system 103 and/or other control systems to implement thetrajectory amendment 120. Additionally, and/or alternatively, the flightmanagement system 103 of the aircraft 102 can implement at least aportion of the trajectory amendment 120 with the auto-pilot system ofthe aircraft 102.

In some implementations, the computing device(s) 112 can be configuredto send the third set of data 128 indicating one or more secondparameters associated with the trajectory amendment 120 to the one ormore second computing device(s) 114 of the operator associated with theaircraft 102. The third set of data 128 can then be displayed via a userinterface to show the second parameters associated with the trajectoryamendment 120 to the operator (and/or a user associated therewith).

For example, FIG. 3 depicts an example user interface 300 according toexample embodiments of the present disclosure. The computing device(s)114 of the operator can display an output 302 including the third set ofdata 128 via the user interface 300. As shown in FIG. 3, the third setof data 128 can be indicative of the second parameters 304 of thetrajectory amendment 120 (e.g., the details of the trajectory amendment120). For instance, the second parameters 304 can include least one of aspeed change 304A associated with the aircraft 102, an altitude change304B associated with the aircraft 102, a heading change 304C associatedwith the aircraft 102, and/or a path change 304D associated with theaircraft 102. In some implementations, the parameters 304 are madeavailable to the operator only after selection (e.g., purchase) of thetrajectory amendment 120. Additionally, and/or alternatively, the userinterface 300 can display a graphical representation 306 of the currenttrajectory 110 and/or the trajectory amendment 120.

The computing device(s) 114 of the operator can be configured toimplement the trajectory amendment 102. For example, computing device(s)114 can send data indicative of the trajectory amendment 120 to theaircraft 102. The aircraft 102 can be configured to implement thetrajectory amendment 120. For example, a flight crew member of theaircraft 102 can interact with the flight management system 103 and/orother control systems to implement the trajectory amendment 120.Additionally, and/or alternatively, the flight management system 103 ofthe aircraft 102 can implement at least a portion of the trajectoryamendment 120 via the auto-pilot system of the aircraft 102.

Returning to FIG. 1, in some implementations, the trajectory amendment120 can be received and/or reviewed by a third party entity 130. Forexample, the third part entity can be associated with an administrativeagency, government agency, air traffic control entity, etc. Thecomputing device(s) 112 can send data indicative of the trajectoryamendment 120 (e.g., sets of data 124, 126, 128) to the third partyentity 130 for approval. The third party entity 130 (e.g., air trafficcontrol entity) can receive data indicative of the trajectory amendment120 (e.g., sets of data 124, 126, 128) to review the trajectoryamendment 120. Such review can take place before the trajectoryamendment 120 is identified to the operator, while the trajectoryamendment 120 is available for selection, and/or before the trajectoryamendment 120 is implemented. In this way, the third party entity 130(e.g., air traffic control entity) can review the parameters 304 of thetrajectory amendment 120 to evaluate the safety and/or effects (e.g.,fuel, noise, emissions, time, turbulence savings) of the trajectoryamendment 120. The third party entity 130 can accept or reject thetrajectory amendment 120 (e.g., in whole or in part) depending, at leastin part, on whether it approves or disapproves of the parameters 304and/or effects of the trajectory amendment 1201 n the event that thetrajectory amendment 120 is accepted by the third party entity 130(e.g., by action and/or inaction by the third party entity 130), thetrajectory amendment 120 will be made available (and/or continue beingavailable) for selection. If the trajectory amendment 120 is rejected bythe third party entity 130 (e.g., by action and/or inaction by the thirdparty entity 130), the trajectory amendment 120 will not be madeavailable (and/or cease being available) for selection.

In some implementations, the third party entity 130 can promote thetrajectory amendment 120. For example, the third party entity 130 maywish to promote fuel, noise, and/or emissions savings. In the event thatthe trajectory amendment 120 is associated with a second fuel level122A, a second noise level 122B, and/or a second emissions level 122Cand/or the savings levels are above a threshold level, the third partyentity 130 can be configured to subsidize the price 204 of thetrajectory amendment 120. In this way, the third party entity 130 canencourage the selection of the trajectory amendment 120 to promotecertain savings associated with the trajectory amendment 120.

FIG. 4 depicts a flow diagram of an example method 400 for providingtrajectory amendments according to example embodiments of the presentdisclosure. FIG. 4 can be implemented by one or more computingdevice(s), such as the computing device(s) depicted in FIGS. 1 and 8.One or more step(s) of the method 400 can be performed while aircraft102 is in-flight. In addition, FIG. 4 depicts steps performed in aparticular order for purposes of illustration and discussion. Those ofordinary skill in the art, using the disclosures provided herein, willunderstand that the various steps of any of the methods disclosed hereincan be modified, adapted, expanded, rearranged, and/or omitted invarious ways without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

At (402), the method 400 can include identifying at least a portion of acurrent trajectory associated with an aircraft. For instance, thecomputing device(s) 112 can identify at least a portion of the currenttrajectory 110 associated with the aircraft 102. The computing device(s)112 can receive data indicative of the current trajectory 110 from atleast one of the aircraft 102, the operator computing system 106, thedata source(s) 108, and/or another system that can provide suchinformation. The computing device(s) 112 can identify one or moreconditions (e.g., speed, heading, altitude, path, time) associated withthe current trajectory 110, as described above.

At (404), the method 400 can include receiving a plurality of parametersassociated with the aircraft. For example, the computing device(s) 112can receive a plurality of parameters 116 associated with the aircraft102. The parameters 116 can be received from the data source(s) 108, thesecond computing device(s) 114 of the operator, and/or the aircraft 102.As indicated above, the parameters 116 can include various types ofinformation that can be associated with the aircraft 102 and/or can beused to determine a trajectory (or trajectory amendment) associated withthe aircraft 102.

At (406), the method 400 can include determining a trajectory amendmentassociated with the aircraft. For instance, the computing device(s) 112can determine a trajectory amendment 120 associated with the aircraft102 based, at least in part, on the plurality of parameters 116. In someimplementations, the computing device(s) 112 can perform afour-dimensional flight trajectory optimization based, at least in part,on the plurality of parameters 116 to determine the trajectory amendment120 associated with the aircraft 102. The trajectory amendment caninclude one or more second parameters 304 that can include at least oneof a speed change 304A associated with the aircraft 102, an altitudechange 304B associated with the aircraft 102, a heading change 304Cassociated with the aircraft 102, and/or a path change 304D associatedwith the aircraft 102. The changes can be relative to the conditions(e.g., speed, altitude, heading, path) associated with one or moreportion(s) of the current trajectory 110.

Additionally, and/or alternatively, the computing device(s) 112 candetermine a trajectory amendment 120 associated with the aircraft 102based, at least in part, on the current trajectory 110. For example, asindicated above, the computing device(s) 112 can identify at least aportion of the current trajectory 110 associated with the aircraft 102and/or one or more conditions associated therewith. By using thecondition(s) identified for the current trajectory 110, the computingdevice(s) 112 can determine the trajectory amendment 120 such that thetrajectory amendment 120 is more cost-effective than the currenttrajectory 110 associated with the aircraft 102.

At (408), the method 400 can include determining a projected operationsvalue associated with the trajectory amendment. For instance, thecomputing device(s) 112 can determine a projected operations value 206associated with the trajectory amendment 120. The projected operationsvalue 206 can include a variety of potential operations values. Forinstance, as indicated above, the projected operations value 206 caninclude at least one of a fuel savings value 206A, a noise savings value206B, an emissions savings value 206C, and/or an aggregate savings value206D. The projected operations value 206 can also, and/or alternatively,include a time savings value and/or a turbulence savings value.

In some implementations, the computing device(s) 112 can determine theprojected operations value 206 by calculating a difference in levelsassociated with the current trajectory 110 and the trajectory amendment120. For example, the computing device(s) 112 can determine at least oneof a first fuel level 118A, a first noise level 118B, and/or a firstemissions level 118C associated with the current trajectory 110. Thecomputing device(s) 112 can determine at least one of a second fuellevel 122A, a second noise level 122B, and a second emissions level 122Cassociated with the trajectory amendment 120. The computing device(s)112 can determine the projected operations value 206 associated with thetrajectory amendment 120 based, at least in part, on at least one of adifference between the first fuel level 118A and the second fuel level122A, a difference between the first noise level 118B and the secondnoise level 122B, and a difference between the first emissions level118C and the second emissions level 122C.

At (410), the method can include determining a price associated with thetrajectory amendment. For instance, the computing device(s) 112 candetermine a price 204 associated with the trajectory amendment 120. Insome implementations, the computing device(s) 112 can determine theprice based, at least in part, on the projected demand for thetrajectory amendment 120, the supply of trajectory amendments for theaircraft 102, the projected operations value 206, and/or a level ofuncertainty/error associated with the trajectory amendment 120. Thecomputing device(s) 112 can implement machine learning techniques and/oralgorithms to help determine the price 204 associated with thetrajectory amendment 120 based, at least in part, on past and/or presentactivity (e.g., purchasing activity) of the operator. Such techniquescan help the provider associated with the computing device(s) 112determine a market optimized price for the trajectory amendment 120.

At (412), the method can include providing the trajectory amendment 120.For instance, the computing device(s) 112 can provide, to the one ormore second computing device(s) 114 of an operator associated with theaircraft 102, the set of data 124 identifying the trajectory amendment120. For example, the set of data 124 can indicate that the trajectoryamendment 120 is available for purchase. The set of data 124 can also beindicative of the projected operations value 206 and/or the price 204associated with the trajectory amendment 120. For example, the computingdevice(s) 112 can generate an output 202 indicating that the trajectoryamendment 120 is available, the aircraft 102, the projected operationsvalue 206, and/or the price 204. The computing device(s) 112 can sendthe output 202 to the one or more second computing device(s) 114 of theoperator associated with the aircraft 102 for display via the userinterface 200. As described above, the user interface 200 can allow fora selection of the trajectory amendment 120. The computing device(s) 114can receive the output 202 and display it via the user interface 200.

In some implementations, the set of data 124 can omit the secondparameters 304 of the trajectory amendment 120. For instance, asindicated above, the second parameters 304 can be indicative of at leastone of the speed change 304A associated with the aircraft 102, thealtitude change 304B associated with the aircraft 102, the headingchange 304C associated with the aircraft 102, and/or the path change304D associated with the aircraft 102. However, in some implementations,the set of data 124 is not indicative of the second parameters 304(e.g., the speed change 304A associated with the aircraft 102, thealtitude change 304B associated with the aircraft 102, the headingchange 304C associated with the aircraft 102, and/or the path change304D associated with the aircraft 102). Concealment of the secondparameters 304 of the trajectory amendment 120 at the pre-selectionstage can provide further incentive for the operator to select thetrajectory amendment 120. Upon selection of the trajectory amendment120, the computing device(s) 114 can send the second set of data 126indicating that the operator selected the trajectory amendment 120.

At (414), the method can include receiving a second set of dataindicating that the operator associated with the aircraft has selectedthe trajectory amendment. For instance, the computing device(s) 112 canreceive the second set of data 126 indicating that the operatorassociated with the aircraft 102 has selected the trajectory amendment120. By way of example, the operator (e.g., a user associated therewith)can interact with the interactive element 208 of the user interface 200to select (e.g., purchase) the trajectory amendment 120.

At (416), the method can include sending a third set of data indicativeof the trajectory amendment. For instance, as indicated above, thecomputing device(s) 112 can send the third set of data 128 (e.g.,indicating one or more second parameter(s) 304 associated with thetrajectory amendment 120) to the one or more second computing device(s)114 of the operator associated with the aircraft 102. This can occurafter the trajectory amendment 120 is selected by the operator. Thecomputing device(s) 114 of the operator can receive the third set ofdata 128 and display the third set of data 128 via the user interface300 to show the second parameters 304 of the trajectory amendment 120 tothe operator (and/or operators thereof). As indicative above, the secondparameters 304 can be made available to the operator after selection(e.g., purchase) of the trajectory amendment 120. The computingdevice(s) 114 of the operator can implement the trajectory amendment102, for example, by sending data indicative of the trajectory amendment120 to the aircraft 102.

Additionally and/or alternatively, the computing device(s) 112 can sendthe third set of data 128 indicating one or more second parameter(s)associated with the trajectory amendment 120 directly to the aircraft102 such that the aircraft 102 can implement the trajectory amendment120 (e.g., via the flight management system 103 of the aircraft 102). Insome implementations, this can be done without sending the third set ofdata 126 to the computing device(s) 114 of the operator.

In some implementations, the method 400 can include sending thetrajectory amendment for approval. For instance, the computing device(s)112 can send data indicative of the trajectory amendment 120 (e.g., setsof data 124, 126, 128) to the third party entity 130 for approval. Thethird party entity 130 (e.g., air traffic control entity) can receivethe data indicative of the trajectory amendment 120 and review thesecond parameters 304 of the trajectory amendment 120, as describedabove. The third party entity 130 can accept or reject the trajectoryamendment 120 depending, at least in part, on whether it approves ordisapproves of the second parameters 304 and/or effects (e.g., projectedoperations value, fuel, noise, emissions savings) of the trajectoryamendment 120.

In some implementations, the method 400 can include receiving dataindicative of the acceptance or rejection of the trajectory amendment.For instance, the computing device(s) 112 can receive a set of dataindicating that the third party entity 130 has rejected or accepted thetrajectory amendment 120. For example, the third party entity 130 canaccept the trajectory amendment 120 (e.g., by action and/or inaction bythe third party entity 130) and send a set of data indicating that thethird party entity 130 accepts the trajectory amendment 120. Thecomputing device(s) 112 can receive such data and provide (or continueto provide) the trajectory amendment 120. The third party entity 130 canreject the trajectory amendment 120 (e.g., by action and/or inaction bythe third party entity 130) and send a set of data indicating that thethird party entity rejects the trajectory amendment 120. The computingdevice(s) 112 can receive such data and not provide (or cease toprovide) the trajectory amendment 120.

Additionally, and/or alternatively, the method 400 can include receivingdata indicative of a promotion of the trajectory amendment. The thirdparty entity 130 can decide to promote the trajectory amendment 120 dueto, for example, the projected operations value 206 associated with thetrajectory amendment 120. The third party entity 130 can send a set ofdata to the computing device(s) 112 indicating that the third partyentity promotes the trajectory amendment 120. By way of example, such aset of data can indicate that the third party entity wishes to subsidizethe price 204 of the trajectory amendment 120. The computing device(s)112 can receive this set of data from the third party entity 130 andsend the set of data 124 (e.g., to the computing device(s) 114 of theoperator) indicating that the trajectory amendment 120 is available, asubsidized price, an operations value, and/or an indication of anapproval and/or promotion of the trajectory amendment 120 by the thirdparty entity 130.

FIG. 5 depicts an example system 500 according to example embodiments ofthe present disclosure. As shown, the system 500 can include a pluralityof aircrafts 502A-B, the computing system 104 (including computingdevice(s) 112), data source(s) 507, and a plurality of computing systems504A-B (e.g., including computing device(s) 506A-B) each associated witha different operator. As further described herein, the aircraft 102, theplurality of aircrafts 502A-B, the computing system 104, the datasource(s) 1507, and the plurality of computing systems 504A-B can beconfigured to communicate with one another (e.g., to send and/or receivedata) via one or more networks.

The computing device(s) 112 can be configured to provide arrival timeslots via a bidding-type system. For example, the computing device(s)112 can be configured to identify an arrival time slot associated with alanding area (e.g., airport). The arrival time slot can be a time thatis available for an aircraft to arrive at (e.g., within the vicinity of)the landing area. The data sources 507 can be associated with one ormore entities (e.g., air traffic control, airports) that collect,monitor, and/or store information associated with arrival time slots.The computing device(s) 112 can be configured to identify the arrivaltime slot by, for example, receiving a set of data 507 indicative of thearrival time slot from the data sources 108.

The computing device(s) 112 can be configured to provide, to one or moresecond computing device(s) 506A-B of a plurality of operators, a firstset of data 510 identifying that the arrival time slot is available.This can include indicating that the arrival time slot is available forpurchase. The computing device(s) 112 can provide the first set of data510 to the computing device(s) 506A of a first operator and to thecomputing device(s) 506B of a second operator. The arrival time slot canbe selected (e.g., purchased) by the first or second operator by biddingon the arrival time slot through a user interface.

For example, FIG. 6 depicts an example user interface 600 according toexample embodiments of the present disclosure. The computing device(s)506A-B of a first and second operators can be configured to receive thefirst set of data 510 and display an output 602 that is indicative ofthe arrival time slot 604 (e.g., “ARRIVAL TIME SLOT A”). The first setof data 510 can also indicate the landing area 606 (e.g., “LANDING AREAA”) associated with the arrival time slot 604 and this information canbe displayed on the user interface 600.

In some implementations, each of the plurality of operators is able toselect the arrival time slot 604 by submitting a bid to the one or morecomputing device(s) 112. In some implementations, the user interface 600can include an interactive element 608 (e.g., button, entry field, menu)with which a user of the computing device(s) 506A-B can interact to bidon the arrival time slot 604. By way of example, the first operatorand/or second operator can submit a bid for the arrival time slot 604 byinteracting with the interactive element 608. At the end of a timeperiod (e.g., auction time period), the operator with the highest bidcan select (e.g., purchase) the arrival time slot 604. For example, inthe event that the first operator has a higher bid than the secondoperator, the first operator will select the arrival time slot 604.

The computing device(s) 112 can be configured to receive an indicationthat the arrival time slot 604 has been selected. For instance, uponselection of the arrival time 604, the computing device(s) 506A of thefirst operator can be configured to send the second set of data 512indicating that the first operator has selected the arrival time slot604. The computing device(s) 112 can be configured to receive the secondset of data 512 indicating that the first operator (of the plurality ofoperators) has selected the arrival time slot 604 (e.g., via the userinterface 600).

The computing device(s) 112 can be configured to determine one or moretrajectory amendments to allow a first aircraft 502A associated with thefirst operator (e.g., that selected the arrival time slot 604) to meetthe arrival time slot 604 associated with the landing area 606. Forinstance, in a manner similar to that described above, the computingdevice(s) 112 can receive a plurality of parameters from the datasource(s) 108. Based, at least in part, on the plurality of parameters,the computing device(s) 112 can determine one or more trajectoryamendments 514A-B associated with one or more aircrafts 502A-B.

In some implementations, at least one of the trajectory amendments514A-B can be associated with a first aircraft 502A of the firstoperator (e.g., that selected the arrival time slot). For example, afirst trajectory amendment 514A can be associated with the firstaircraft 502A and can include one or more parameters (e.g., a change inspeed, altitude, heading, path) to allow the first aircraft 502A to meetthe arrival time slot 604 associated with the landing area 606. Thecomputing device(s) 112 can send the first trajectory amendment 514A tothe aircraft 502A and/or the computing device(s) 506A for implementationof the trajectory amendment 514A, in a manner similar to that describedabove.

In some implementations, one or more of the trajectory amendments 514A-Bcan be associated with aircrafts (e.g., 502B) of one or more operatorsother than the first operator. For example, a second trajectoryamendment 514B can be associated with the second aircraft 502B of thesecond operator that did not select the arrival time slot. The secondtrajectory amendment 514B can include one or more parameters (e.g., achange in speed, altitude, heading, path) to prevent the second aircraft502B from obstructing the first aircraft 502A from meeting the arrivaltime slot 604 associated with the landing area 606. The computingdevice(s) 112 can be configured to send the second trajectory amendment514B to the computing device(s) 506B associated with the secondoperator. The computing device(s) 112 can be configured to incentivizethe second operator to implement the second trajectory amendment 514B,for example, by paying the second operator. In such case, the profit tothe provider can include the difference between the bid price paid bythe first operator and the cost to sell the second trajectory amendment514B to the second operator.

In some implementations, the computing device(s) 112 can send thetrajectory amendment(s) 514A-B for approval. For instance, the computingdevice(s) 112 can send data indicative of the trajectory amendment514A-B to the third party entity 130 for approval. The third partyentity 130 can receive the data indicative of the trajectory amendment514A-B and review the parameters of the trajectory amendment 514A-B, ina manner similar to that described above. The third party entity 130 canaccept or reject the trajectory amendment 514A-B (in whole or in part)depending, at least in part, on whether it approves or disapproves ofthe parameters and/or effects (e.g., projected operations value, fuel,noise, emissions savings) of the trajectory amendment 514A-B.

In some implementations, the computing device(s) 112 can receive dataindicative of the acceptance or rejection of the trajectory amendment.For instance, the computing device(s) 112 can receive a set of dataindicating that the third party entity 130 has rejected or accepted thetrajectory amendment 514A-B. For example, the third party entity 130 canaccept the trajectory amendment 514A-B (e.g., by action and/or inactionby the third party entity 130) and send a set of data indicating thatthe third party entity 130 accepts the trajectory amendment 514A-B. Thecomputing device(s) 112 can receive such data and provide (or continueto provide) the trajectory amendment 514A-B. The third party entity 130can reject the trajectory amendment 514A-B (e.g., by action and/orinaction by the third party entity 130) and send a set of dataindicating that the third party entity rejects the trajectory amendment514A-B. The computing device(s) 112 can receive such data and notprovide (or cease to provide) the trajectory amendment 514A-B.

Additionally, and/or alternatively, the computing device(s) 112 canreceive data indicative of a promotion of the trajectory amendment. Thethird party entity 130 can decide to promote the trajectory amendment514A-B due to, for example, a projected operations value associated withthe trajectory amendment 514A-B. The third party entity 130 can send aset of data to the computing device(s) 112 indicating that the thirdparty entity 130 promotes the trajectory amendment 514A-B. Additionally,and/or alternatively, the set of data indicating that the third partyentity 130 has accepted the trajectory amendment can include anindication that the third party 130 promotes the trajectory amendment514A-B.

By way of example, the third part entity 103 may wish to promote thesecond trajectory amendment 514B because it is associated with a fuel,noise, emissions, turbulence, etc. savings. As such, the third partyentity 130 can promote the second trajectory amendment 514B byincentivizing (e.g., paying, give priority treatment, etc.) the secondoperator to implement the second trajectory amendment 514B. Thecomputing device(s) 112 can receive a set of data from the third partyentity 130 indicating that a third party entity has accepted thetrajectory amendment and/or including an indication that the third partypromotes the trajectory amendment. The computing devices can send a setof data indicating the trajectory amendment 512B, an operations value,an indication of an approval, and/or an indication of a promotion of thetrajectory amendment 514B by the third party entity 130 to one or moreoperators of the plurality of operators (e.g., to the computingdevice(s) 506A-B of the operator(s)).

In some implementations, the operators can transfer the arrival timeslots. For example, the first operator can transfer the arrival timeslot 604 to the second operator. The computing device(s) 506A-B of thefirst and/or second operators can be configured to send a third set ofdata 516 indicating that the first operator has transferred the arrivaltime slot 604 to a second operator. The computing device(s) 112 can beconfigured to receive the third set of data 516 indicating that thefirst operator has sold the arrival time slot 604 to a second operator.The computing device(s) 112 can be configured to determine one or moreother trajectory amendments to allow a second aircraft 502B associatedwith the second operator to meet the arrival time slot 604 associatedwith the landing area 606, in a manner similar to that described above.

FIG. 7 depicts a flow diagram of an example method 700 for providingtrajectory amendments according to example embodiments of the presentdisclosure. FIG. 7 can be implemented by one or more computingdevice(s), such as the computing device(s) depicted in FIGS. 5 and 8.One or more step(s) of the method 500 can be performed while one or moreof the aircrafts 502A-B are in-flight. In addition, FIG. 7 depicts stepsperformed in a particular order for purposes of illustration anddiscussion. Those of ordinary skill in the art, using the disclosuresprovided herein, will understand that the various steps of any of themethods disclosed herein can be modified, adapted, expanded, rearrangedand/or omitted in various ways without deviating from the scope of thepresent disclosure.

At (702), the method 700 can include identifying an arrival time slotassociated with a landing area. For instance, the computing device(s)112 can identify an arrival time slot 604 associated with a landing area606. As described herein, the computing device(s) 112 can identify thearrival time slot 604 by, for example, receiving a set of data 508indicative of the arrival time slot 604 from the data sources 507.

At (704), the method 700 can include providing a first set of dataidentifying the arrival time slot. For example, the computing device(s)112 can provide, to one or more second computing device(s) 506A-B of aplurality of operators, a first set of data 510 identifying the arrivaltime slot 604 (e.g., indicating that the arrival time slot 604 isavailable for purchase). The computing device(s) 112 can provide fordisplay, in a user interface 600 associated with the computing device(s)506A-B, the arrival time slot 604. The computing device(s) 506A-B canreceive the first set of data 510 and display an output 602 that isindicative of the arrival time slot 604 and/or the landing area 606, asshown for example in FIG. 6. Each of the plurality of operators can beable to select (e.g., purchase) the arrival time slot 606 by, forexample, submitting a bid to the one or more computing device(s) 112(e.g., via the user interface 600). In the event that the first operatorhas a higher bid than the second operator, the first operator can select(e.g., purchase) the arrival time slot 604.

At (706), the method 700 can include receiving a second set of dataindicating that a first operator has selected the arrival time slot. Forexample, if the first operator selects the arrival time slot 604 (e.g.,via a winning bid), the computing device(s) 506A of the first operatorcan send a second set of data 512 indicating the selection of thearrival time slot 604 to the computing device(s) 112. The computingdevice(s) 112 can receive the second set of data 512 indicating that thefirst operator (of the plurality of operators) has selected the arrivaltime slot 604.

At (708), the method 700 can include determining one or more trajectoryamendments to allow a first aircraft associated with the first operatorto meet the arrival time slot. For instance, the computing device(s) 112can determine one or more trajectory amendments 514A-B to allow a firstaircraft 502A associated with the first operator to meet the arrivaltime slot 604 associated with the landing area 606. As described above,in some implementations, at least one of the trajectory amendments(e.g., 514A) can be associated with the first aircraft 502A of the firstoperator (e.g., that selected the arrival time slot 604). Such atrajectory amendment (e.g., 514A) can allow the first aircraft 502A tomeet the arrival time slot 604. In some implementations, the trajectoryamendments (e.g., 514B) can be associated with aircrafts (e.g., 502B) ofone or more operators other than the first operator (e.g., the operatorsthat did not select the arrival time slot 604). Such trajectoryamendments (e.g., 514B) can allow the first aircraft 502A to meet thearrival time slot 604 by adjusting the trajectories of one or more otheraircraft(s) (e.g., 502B) to avoid interfering with the first aircraft502A meeting the arrival time slot 604.

At (710), the method 700 can include sending the one or more trajectoryamendments. For instance, the computing device(s) 112 can send the oneor more trajectory amendments 514A-B to one or more operators (e.g.,computing device(s) 506A-B) of the plurality of operators. In this way,the operators can implement the trajectory amendments 514A-B to allowthe first aircraft 502A to meet the arrival time slot 604. Additionally,and/or alternatively, the computing device(s) 12 can send the one ormore trajectory amendments 514A-B to one or more of the aircrafts(s)502A-B. In some implementations, the computing device(s) 112 can sendthe trajectory amendments 514A-B for approval, rejection, and/orpromotion by a third party, as described above.

At (712), the method 700 can include receiving a third set of dataindicating that the first operator has transferred the arrival time slotto a second operator. For example, the first operator can transfer thearrival time slot 604 to the second operator. The computing device(s)506A-B of the first and/or second operators can be configured to send athird set of data 516 indicating that the first operator has transferred(e.g., sold, assigned, licensed, traded) the arrival time slot 604 to asecond operator. The computing device(s) 112 can receive the third setof data 516 indicating that the first operator has transferred thearrival time slot 604 to a second operator. Moreover, at (714), when thearrival time slot 604 is transferred, the method 700 can includedetermining one or more other trajectory amendments. For instance, thecomputing device(s) 112 can determine one or more other trajectoryamendments to allow a second aircraft 502B associated with the secondoperator to meet the arrival time slot 604 associated with the landingarea 606.

FIG. 8 depicts an example system 800 according to example embodiments ofthe present disclosure. The system 800 can include the computing system140, the data source(s) 108/507, the third party entity 130, one or moreaircraft(s) 802, and/or one or more computing system(s) 804. The one ormore aircraft(s) 802 can correspond to any of the aircrafts describedherein (e.g., 102, 502A, 502B). The one or more computing system(s) 804(and its components) can correspond to any of the computing systemsassociated with an operator described herein (e.g., 106, 504A, 504B).The computing system 104, the data source(s) 108/507, the third partyentity 130, the one or more aircraft(s) 802, and/or the one or morecomputing system(s) 804 can be configured to communicate via one or morecommunications networks 808 (e.g., any suitable networks fortransmission of the communications and/or data described herein).

The computing system 104 can include one or more computing device(s)112. The computing device(s) 112 can include one or more processor(s)112A and one or more memory device(s) 112B. The one or more processor(s)112A can include any suitable processing device, such as amicroprocessor, microcontroller, integrated circuit, logic device,and/or other suitable processing device. The one or more memorydevice(s) 112B can include one or more computer-readable media,including, but not limited to, non-transitory computer-readable media,RAM, ROM, hard drives, flash drives, and/or other memory devices.

The one or more memory device(s) 112B can store information accessibleby the one or more processor(s) 112A, including computer-readableinstructions 112C that can be executed by the one or more processor(s)112A. The instructions 112C can be any set of instructions that whenexecuted by the one or more processor(s) 112A, cause the one or moreprocessor(s) 112A to perform operations. In some embodiments, theinstructions 112C can be executed by the one or more processor(s) 112Ato cause the one or more processor(s) 112A to perform operations, suchas any of the operations and functions for which the computing system104 and/or the computing device(s) 112 are configured, the operationsfor trajectory amendments (e.g., methods 400, 700), as described herein,and/or any other operations or functions of the one or more computingdevice(s) 112. The instructions 112C can be software written in anysuitable programming language or can be implemented in hardware.Additionally, and/or alternatively, the instructions 112C can beexecuted in logically and/or virtually separate threads on processor(s)112A.

The memory device(s) 112B can further store data 112D that can beaccessed by the processors 117A. For example, the data 112D can includethe sets of data, parameters, outputs, etc. shown and/or discussed withreference to FIGS. 1-7, data associated with the third party entity 130,data associated with one or more operators, and/or any other data and/orinformation described herein.

The computing device(s) 112 can also include a network interface 112Eused to communicate, for example, with the other components of system800 (e.g., via network(s) 808). The network interface 112E can includeany suitable components for interfacing with one or more network(s),including for example, transmitters, receivers, ports, controllers,antennas, and/or other suitable components.

The computing system 804 can include one or more computing device(s) 806that can correspond to the computing device(s) associated with theoperators (e.g., 114, 506A, 506B). The computing device(s) 806 caninclude one or more processor(s) 806A and one or more memory device(s)806B. The one or more processor(s) 806A can include any suitableprocessing device, such as a microprocessor, microcontroller, integratedcircuit, logic device, and/or other suitable processing device. The oneor more memory device(s) 806B can include one or more computer-readablemedia, including, but not limited to, non-transitory computer-readablemedia, RAM, ROM, hard drives, flash drives, and/or other memory devices.

The one or more memory device(s) 806B can store information accessibleby the one or more processor(s) 806A, including computer-readableinstructions 806C that can be executed by the one or more processor(s)806A. The instructions 806C can be any set of instructions that whenexecuted by the one or more processor(s) 806A, cause the one or moreprocessor(s) 806A to perform operations. In some embodiments, theinstructions 806C can be executed by the one or more processor(s) 806Ato cause the one or more processor(s) 806A to perform operations, suchas any of the operations and functions for which the computing systems106, 504A, 504B and/or the computing device(s) 114, 506A, 506B areconfigured, the operations for trajectory amendments (e.g., methods 400,700), as described herein, and/or any other operations or functions ofone or more of the computing systems 106, 504A, 504B and/or thecomputing device(s) 114, 506A, 506B. The instructions 806C can besoftware written in any suitable programming language or can beimplemented in hardware. Additionally, and/or alternatively, theinstructions 806C can be executed in logically and/or virtually separatethreads on processor(s) 806A.

The memory device(s) 806B can further store data 806D that can beaccessed by the processors 806A. For example, the data 806D can includethe sets of data, parameters, outputs, etc. shown and/or discussed withreference to FIGS. 1-7, data associated with one or more aircrafts, dataassociated with one or more operators, and/or any other data and/orinformation described herein.

The computing device(s) 806 can also include a network interface 806Eused to communicate, for example, with the other components of system800 (e.g., via network(s) 808). The network interface 806E can includeany suitable components for interfacing with one or more network(s),including for example, transmitters, receivers, ports, controllers,antennas, and/or other suitable components.

The technology discussed herein makes reference to computer-basedsystems and actions taken by and information sent to and fromcomputer-based systems. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognizethat the inherent flexibility of computer-based systems allows for agreat variety of possible configurations, combinations, and divisions oftasks and functionality between and among components. For instance,processes discussed herein can be implemented using a single computingdevice or multiple computing devices working in combination. Databases,memory, instructions, and applications can be implemented on a singlesystem or distributed across multiple systems. Distributed componentscan operate sequentially or in parallel.

Although specific features of various embodiments may be shown in somedrawings and not in others, this is for convenience only. In accordancewith the principles of the present disclosure, any feature of a drawingmay be referenced and/or claimed in combination with any feature of anyother drawing.

This written description uses examples to disclose the presentdisclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any personskilled in the art to practice the present disclosure, including makingand using any devices or systems and performing any incorporatedmethods. The patentable scope of the present disclosure is defined bythe claims, and can include other examples that occur to those skilledin the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope ofthe claims if they include structural elements that do not differ fromthe literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalentstructural elements with insubstantial differences from the literallanguages of the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A computer-implemented method of providingtrajectory amendments, comprising: identifying, by one or more firstcomputing devices, an arrival time slot associated with a landing area;providing, by the one or more first computing devices to one or moresecond computing devices of a plurality of operators, a first set ofdata identifying the arrival time slot; receiving, by the one or morefirst computing devices, a second set of data indicating that a firstoperator of the plurality of operators has selected the arrival timeslot; and determining in real-time, by the one or more first computingdevices, one or more trajectory amendments to allow a first aircraftassociated with the first operator to meet the arrival time slotassociated with the landing area; determining, by the one or more firstcomputing devices, a projected operations value associated with the oneor more trajectory amendments; and sending, by the one or more firstcomputing devices, the one or more trajectory amendments.
 2. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein sending, by the one ormore computing devices, the one or more trajectory amendments comprises:sending, by the one or more computing devices, the one or moretrajectory amendments to one or more operators of the plurality ofoperators.
 3. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein atleast one of the trajectory amendments is associated with the firstaircraft, and wherein a price associated with the one or more trajectoryamendments is only viewable by the first operator of the plurality ofoperators.
 4. The computer-implemented method of claim 3, whereinsending, by the one or more computing devices, the one or moretrajectory amendments comprises: sending, by the one or more computingdevices, the at least one trajectory amendment to the first aircraftassociated with the first operator, wherein the at least one trajectoryamendment is implementable by a flight management system, and whereinthe price associated with the one or more trajectory amendments isbased, at least in part, on the supply of trajectory amendments.
 5. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the one or moretrajectory amendments are associated with one or more aircrafts of oneor more operators other than the first operator.
 6. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 5, wherein sending, by the one ormore computing devices, the one or more trajectory amendments comprises:sending, by the one or more computing devices, the one or moretrajectory amendments to the one or more aircrafts of the one or moreoperators other than the first operator.
 7. The computer-implementedmethod of claim 6, wherein each of the plurality of operators is able toselect the arrival time slot by submitting a bid to the one or morefirst computing devices, and wherein selecting the arrival time slotfurther comprises purchasing the arrival time slot.
 8. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising: receiving,by the one or more computing devices, a third set of data indicatingthat the first operator has transferred the arrival time slot to asecond operator; and determining, by the one or more computing devices,one or more other trajectory amendments to allow a second aircraftassociated with the second operator to meet the arrival time slotassociated with the landing area.
 9. The computer-implemented method ofclaim 1, wherein providing, by the one or more computing devices to oneor more second computing devices of the plurality of operators, thefirst set of data identifying the arrival time slot comprises: providingfor display, in a user interface presented on a display device, thearrival time slot.
 10. The computer-implemented method of claim 9,wherein the arrival time slot is provided such that the arrival timeslot can be selected via the user interface.
 11. A computer-implementedmethod of providing trajectory amendments, comprising: identifying, byone or more first computing devices, an arrival time slot associatedwith a landing area; providing, by the one or more first computingdevices to one or more second computing devices of a plurality ofoperators, a first set of data identifying the arrival time slot;receiving, by the one or more first computing devices, a second set ofdata indicating that a first operator of the plurality of operators hasselected the arrival time slot; and determining in real-time, by the oneor more first computing devices, one or more trajectory amendments toallow a first aircraft associated with the first operator to meet thearrival time slot associated with the landing area; determining, by theone or more first computing devices, a projected operations value forthe one or more trajectory amendments; and sending the one or moretrajectory amendments to one or more operators of the plurality ofoperators.
 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the trajectory amendmentsare associated with aircrafts of one or more operators other than thefirst operator.
 13. The system of claim 11, wherein at least one of thetrajectory amendments is associated with the first aircraft.
 14. Thesystem of claim 11, wherein the arrival time slot is provided such thatthe arrival time slot can be selected via the user interface.
 15. Thesystem of claim 11, wherein each of the plurality of operators is ableto purchase the arrival time slot by submitting a bid to the one or morefirst computing devices via interaction with the user interface.
 16. Thesystem of claim 11, further comprising: receiving a third set of dataindicating that the first operator has transferred the arrival time slotto a second operator; and determining one or more other trajectoryamendments to allow a second aircraft associated with the secondoperator to meet the arrival time slot associated with the landing area,wherein the third set of data is displayed via a user interface to thesecond operator, and wherein each of the plurality of operators is ableto sell the arrival time slot by submitting a bid to the one or morefirst computing devices via interaction with the user interface.
 17. Acomputing system for providing trajectory amendments, the systemcomprising one or more processors and one or more memory devices, theone or more memory devices storing instructions that when executed bythe one or more processors cause the one or more processors to performoperations, the operations comprising: identifying an arrival time slotassociated with a landing area; providing, to one or more secondcomputing devices of a plurality of operators, a first set of dataidentifying the arrival time slot; receiving a second set of dataindicating that a first operator of the plurality of operators hasselected the arrival time slot; determining one or more trajectoryamendments in real-time to allow a first aircraft associated with thefirst operator to meet the arrival time slot associated with the landingarea; determining, by the one or more first computing devices, aprojected operations value associated with the one or more trajectoryamendments; receiving a set of data indicating that a third party entityhas accepted the one or more trajectory amendments; and responsive toreceiving the set of data indicating that a third party has accepted theone or more trajectory amendments, sending the one or more trajectoryamendments to one or more operators of the plurality of operators. 18.The system of claim 17, wherein the set of data indicating that thethird party entity has accepted the one or more trajectory amendmentsfurther comprises an indication that the third party promotes the one ormore trajectory amendment, the system further comprising an interactiveelement, the interactive element being used by at least one operator ofthe plurality of operators to select the one or more trajectory.
 19. Thesystem of claim 18, wherein sending the one or more trajectoryamendments to one or more operators of the plurality of operatorscomprises: sending a set of data indicating the one or more trajectoryamendments and an indication of a promotion by the third party entity toone or more operators of the plurality of operators, wherein the thirdparty entity subsidizes the price of the one or more trajectoryamendments, and wherein the interactive element comprises a button. 20.The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the projectedoperations value includes at least one of a fuel savings value, a noisesavings value, an emission savings value, a time savings value, and aturbulence savings value.